Seoul: Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung was certain to win the presidential election Tuesday, three broadcasters said, as the vote count neared the halfway point. The projection by KBS, MBC, and SBS came nearly four hours after polls closed in the snap election triggered by the ouster of former President Yoon Suk Yeol over his botched imposition of martial law.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee addressed reporters outside his home in Incheon, west of Seoul, acknowledging the early projection but expressing his respect for "the people's great decision." He stated, "I will do my best to fulfill the big responsibility and mission given to me so as not to fall short of our people's expectations."
The election results are being closely watched as they mark a significant political shift following the controversial removal of the former president. Lee's anticipated victory is seen as a pivotal moment for the Democratic Party and the nation's political landscape.